Washington’s more than $6 billion tree fruit industry leads the nation in production of apples, pears, and sweet cherries, thanks in part to WSU research and support. New apple varieties being developed at WSU will help drive future sales of the state’s leading agricultural commodity.

WSU hosts the Washington Small Business Development Center Network (SBDC), a statewide network of more than two dozen business advisors. Advisors help small business owners start, grow, or transition their businesses.

From 2006 to 2016, Washington SBDC advisors worked with more than 20,000 entrepreneurs. Those clients credit SBDC advising with helping them start 1,012 businesses and create or save 13,816 jobs. On average, clients’ sales grew three times the statewide average.

SBDC advisors serve the full spectrum of industries: manufacturing, technology, professional services, retail, and others. Their advising is confidential, tailored to the needs of each client, and provided at no cost to the business owner.